This weekend will be January signing Jonjoe Kenny’s first taste of the Glasgow Derby and although it is under different circumstances he is looking to use his previous experiences to his advantage.
As quoted by the Herald Scotland speaking to the Celtic Website, Kenny is looking to use his experience of the Merseyside Derby as an Everton player and fan to his advantage ahead of the occasion.
“Everyone here knows what a derby’s like.
“All the players here have played in some sort of derby but I know this is one of the biggest derbies in the world. I’m really looking forward to this and it’ll be another big moment in my career.
“I can’t wait to get going. All the players know what this is about and the build-up to it.
“You need to try and not get too emotional and be as calm-headed as possible which is difficult to do knowing how big the game is and what it means to people around the club.
“In Liverpool, the Merseyside Derby was massive for me growing up and I’ve learned to be as calm as possible and enjoy the moment.
“You don’t have to think about the game too much leading up to it and that can be hard because it’s well documented. You’ve got to take it day by day and enjoy the occasion.
“I didn’t see the game in January but I don’t think you need to think about it too much. You know what it’s about and you just need to focus on you, to go out there and show people what we’re about and how good we can be.”
Of course, the Merseyside Derby doesn’t come all that close in comparison to the sort of rivalry you get from a game between Celtic and Rangers.
However, down south as an Everton fan it will be seen as a huge occasion which Kenny will have taken a lot of experience from.
This is arguably the loanee’s biggest test since joining the club at the end of January. So far, he has been solid and has started to impress.
At this stage, there isn’t anything to play for in terms of the league but fans need to see commitment from these players and how much they are willing to put in. After such a poor season, it’s the least they could do at this late stage.
Good luck JJ that is coming from a life long CELTIC and EVERTON fan.